Parks & Recreation

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SPLASHES AND GIGGLES AT DUNKIN’ FOR PUMPKINS

The Schertz Family Y, along with Schertz Parks & Recreation, held the 4th annual Dunkin’ for Pumpkins event on Saturday, October 3. The twist on the typical pumpkin patch hosted many Royal guests recently joined the Schertz Sweetheart Court virtually for Princess Readings at the Schertz Public Library. Readings were live-streamed from the Schertz Public Library on Saturday mornings in September and October. Participants tuned in to hear an enchanting princess story told by each member of the court and were able to interact with the featured

splashes and giggles, goodie bags, and giveaways. Following social distancing guidelines, families signed up for a 45-minute session. Children, ages 1 to 12 years, had the opportunity to plunge into the pool at the Schertz Aquatics Center and hunt for the perfect pumpkin to bring home. Parks & Recreation staff shared gift bags with a mystery face for decorating their pumpkin, sweet treats, and provided a photo backdrop for photos to commemorate the event. Thank you to our amazing community members for making the Dunkin’ for Pumpkins event a huge success! A thank you goes to our wonderful sponsors, Raising Cane’s, and H-E-B, for helping

SCHERTZ SWEETHEART COURT SHARES PRINCESS STORIES

us make this event one to remember. Sweetheart Princess as she created the royal craft related to the book. Thanks to everyone that joined us for these special virtual events! The Princess Reading videos are now available to view on CivicRec.

NEW AMENITIES AT PICKRELL PARK

With emphasis on recreation, the large pavilion at Pickrell Park has undergone a renovation already being enjoyed by residents of all ages. Working over the winter months, Parks & Recreation staff completed the painting of the pavilion structure, both inside and out. Included in the painting update were the small pavilions and permanent restroom facilities. Basketball goals previously removed for safety have been replaced, and the new basketball courts under the large pavillion are now open. Make sure to get out there and practice your jump shot or put together a game with some friends! Pickleball court lines have also been added to the pavilion. Did you know that Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the U.S.? Next time you are out at Pickrell Park, make sure to check it out! The addition of seating around the perimeter now gives residents a place to watch games, and to place water bottles, towels, and more. The pavilions at Pickrell Park are available to the community for general public use unless rented for a private function. To learn more about rental opportunities, please visit Schertz.com.

PARK PAVILION RENTALS NOW AVAILABLE

Small Pavilions at Pickrell Park are now open and available for rental! Complete your Small Pavilion Rental on CivicRec. Create a new account or login with Facebook or Google. This program gives you the ability to view the pavilion calendar, rent pavilions, or register for activities.

Once you create an account and sign in, be sure to click on ‘Account’ to verify your address and contact information. You can also update your contact preferences.

Here are just some additional things you can do on CivicRec: ■ Register your team for the Adult Social League ■ Register for events as a vendor ■ Purchase a Veteran’s Memorial Plaza Paver ■ Register for a library program

JOIN US FOR THE NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES

Discover Horns and Thorns was the topic discussed at the October 10 Nature Discovery Series program. Led by volunteers Tom T., Liz R., Kate S., and Gayle T. with the Master Naturalists-Guadalupe County Chapter, attendees learned which inhabitants at Crescent Bend had horns or thorns and how they are used. This free program is limited to groups of 10 participants to ensure social distancing measures are followed. Registration is now open for the final class of 2020 on November 14 where we will Discover Nature Journaling. Register all family members who would like to participate or accompany any young ones. For more information on classes and to register, go to Schertz.com.

WEEKLY PHOTO CONTESTS WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Congratulations to the recent winners of the Schertz Parks & Recreation Weekly Photo Contests! We have loved seeing all of the photos that have been submitted, and we hope you continue to get out and enjoy your local parks. Stay tuned next year for more Weekly Photo Contests.

WINNERS:

Best Photo at the Schertz Dog Park – Dan Scott Best Back to School Photo Part 1 – Lorenzo Family Best Back to School Photo Part 2 – Lucas Trejo & Cynthia Benavides Muse Best National Wildlife Day Photo – Lonnie and Shelly McDonald Best Photo in a Pool - Belia Gonzalez McDonald

The Blue Santa Program, created to help bring holiday happiness to Schertz families and children in need, is going to look different in 2020. This year the Schertz Police Department is introducing the Blue Santa Tree. Much like an Angel Tree, contributors can remove one or more tags from the Blue Santa Tree and purchase appropriate gifts for the child or children described on the tags. Those willing to donate can pick up a Blue Santa Tree gift tag beginning on Tuesday, November 24 in the Police Department Lobby (1400 Schertz Parkway Bldg. 6). Monetary and gift card donations will also be accepted. Families interested in participating in this program to receive assistance will need to fill out an application. Applications are available online at Schertz.com, and the deadline for applications is Monday, November 23.